Man Sentenced to 16 Years for Shooting That Blinded Construction Worker

Cancún, Quintana Roo — A judge has sentenced Ernesto Espinoza Zárate to 16 years and six months in prison for attempted aggravated homicide after a shooting that cost a construction worker his right eye, the State Prosecutor’s Office said.

The attack occurred on July 19, 2023, while the victim was working on the construction of a hotel at kilometer 16.5 of Boulevard Kukulcán, according to the investigation.

Prosecutors said Espinoza Zárate and another man, both armed, intercepted the worker. The two had previously extorted workers at the construction site. When a co-worker known as “Cholo” arrived, one of the attackers pointed a gun at him and then ordered Espinoza to shoot if the victim tried to escape.

The worker ran but was shot in the left leg. He reached the dining area, where he was caught and shot again in the right shoulder and cheekbone. The facial wound caused the loss of his right eye.

Authorities said the attack was linked to an earlier dispute between the workers and the attackers.

In addition to the prison sentence, Espinoza Zárate must pay a fine of 103,740 pesos and restitution in an amount to be set by the judge. He will remain in Cancún prison.